How Your Money Stories Are Sabotaging You

We all have a money story. Whether we realize it or not, the way we think about money—how we earn it, spend it, save it, and even feel about it—comes from our past experiences and beliefs.

These stories, often developed in childhood or shaped by challenging life circumstances, can quietly sabotage our financial well-being.

In this post, I want to explore how your money stories may be holding you back—and how to start rewriting them for a life of greater abundance.

1. Your Money Story Shapes Your Mindset

From a young age, we absorb beliefs about money: “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” “We can’t afford that,” or “Rich people are greedy.” These ideas shape our money personality and impact every financial decision we make, often without us even realizing it.

2. The Scarcity Mindset Is a Silent Saboteur

If you’ve ever felt like there’s never enough—money, time, resources—you might be stuck in a scarcity mindset. This mindset tells us we’re always behind, always lacking, and it keeps us in survival mode. I’ve lived in that place for years due to personal and family circumstances. It’s hard—and it’s hard to get out of.

3. Escaping Scarcity Takes Time and Intention

Climbing out of a scarcity mindset isn’t something you can do overnight. It takes conscious, repeated effort to shift your thinking. But it’s possible. I’m still on that journey, and I want to remind you: just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

4. Gratitude Is a Bridge to Abundance

Even in difficult times, cultivating gratitude can help shift your mindset. Being thankful for small joys—a warm meal, a roof over your head, time with loved ones—can make a big difference in how you experience life and money.

5. Mindset Is a Continuum, Not a Fixed State

You’re not either “abundant” or “scarce”—you move back and forth on a spectrum. Some days you’ll feel wealthy in spirit even if your bank account is low. Other days, you might feel anxious even when your finances are stable. The key is to be aware of where you are on that continuum and work gently toward abundance.

6. Joy Doesn’t Require Wealth

Don’t let the absence of money rob you of joy. I’ve met so many people with very little who still find ways to laugh, connect, and enjoy life. Having money isn’t the only path to fulfillment—and lacking it doesn’t mean you can’t live a rich, meaningful life.

7. Abundance Starts in the Mind

Hope and opportunity are vital ingredients in attracting abundance. When you believe good things are coming your way—and stay open to receiving them—you’re more likely to notice and act on opportunities that improve your life.

8. Hoarding Money Is Another Form of Scarcity

Even when people earn more, they can still feel trapped. If you’re afraid to spend or enjoy the money you’ve worked so hard for, you might still be stuck in a scarcity mindset. Money is meant to support you—not control you.

9. Money Is Meant to Flow

Think of money as energy: it flows in and out. Saving is important, yes—but so is spending mindfully, generously, and joyfully. When you let money circulate in healthy ways, you contribute to a cycle of abundance.

10. Change Begins with Awareness

You don’t have to stay stuck in old money patterns. The first step is noticing them. Ask yourself: What are my beliefs about money? Where did they come from? How are they helping or hurting me? Once you identify those stories, you can start to rewrite them.

Final Thoughts

Your money story doesn’t define you—it just explains where you’ve been. With intention, reflection, and a shift in mindset, you can move from scarcity to abundance. Start by being kind to yourself, and remember: your financial future can be brighter than your past.

If this resonated with you, I’d love for you to subscribe to the channel or leave a comment sharing your own money story. Let’s continue the conversation and grow together.

—Dr. Joanne Narae